China is the world leader in scoring on such tests. China also has a long history of standardized testing. However, China barely finished ahead of Finland, previously the top-rated country for many years, and Finland has never used such exams. Proponents say that standardized tests are more reliable and objective, scored as they are by machines, not people. Opponents answer that tests like this cannot measure a person’s innovative qualities, such as creativity and critical thinking. Those latter qualities are what lawyers should have.

The changes in the California bar examination will save the state money. Critics are concerned about the possible loss of quality in legal representation in America’s largest state. Barring a change of mind, the new test will start in July, 2017.